Real Madrid found relief at the Metropolitano thanks to a spectacular goal from Kylian Mbappé, who in the 25th minute silenced the home crowd with a classy finish that restored confidence to Xabi Alonso’s side in a derby full of drama.

Up to that point, Atlético de Madrid had imposed their game and taken the lead through Robin Le Normand, capitalizing on the intensity of Diego Simeone’s men. However, Los Blancos’ firepower appeared at the perfect moment to level the match.

A work of art at the Metropolitano

The move leading to the equalizer was a perfect example of Xabi Alonso’s plan: patient possession with sudden vertical bursts to exploit space. Arda Güler, with vision and precision, slipped a pass that split Atlético’s back line. The ball reached Mbappé, who calmly faced Jan Oblak and beat him with an unstoppable cross-shot.

The goal not only made it 1-1, but also dealt a psychological blow to the Rojiblancos, who had been dominating up until then. The partnership between Güler and Mbappé once again proved it could be one of the most dangerous combinations in Europe.

Güler leaves his mark too

Real Madrid completed the comeback shortly after. A play from Vinícius Junior, taking advantage of a defensive mistake by Le Normand, ended with an assist for Arda Güler, who made it 1-2 in the 36th minute. With just two shots on target, Los Blancos had turned their efficiency into a scoreboard advantage.

Atlético de Madrid, true to their character, refused to fold. In added time, Alexander Sorloth, who had squandered two clear chances early on, redeemed himself with a powerful header to make it 2-2 before the break.

An unforgettable first half

The opening act of the derby was a rollercoaster of emotions: Atlético dominance, Madrid’s response, and a draw that left everything wide open for the second half. Between Mbappé’s finishing power and Atlético’s relentless fight, the match became a spectacle worthy of Spanish football’s biggest nights.